Glossary A–ZLetter I
Interactive map
An interactive map is a digital site or building map on a touchscreen on which visitors can search for destinations, tap them and be shown the way there.
It is found in shopping centres, hospitals, universities, trade fairs and large administrative buildings.
The usual features are a “You are here” marker, a search by name or category and a route display, often across several floors. Many maps offer a QR code that transfers the route to a smartphone. Rooms, shops, lifts, toilets and emergency exits are stored in the map. The map supplements the fixed signage, which keeps working even when the screen is switched off.
Operators should maintain the map as data: if a tenant moves or a room closes, this must be updated quickly, otherwise the map leads people astray. The map's orientation should match the direction in which the viewer is facing. For wheelchair users, controls within reach and step-free routes are important. On a public device, only the map should be usable, not a browser or the operating system.